STARTING Jan. 1, those employed by the Starbucks’ China division for more than two years will be given credits they can use to select from a wide array of benefits, in an effort to meet the needs and aspirations of different employees in the increasingly diverse work family.

“Starbucks success in China is down to the passion and dedication our partners bring to work every day — in every cup of coffee they brew, and every customer connection they make,” said Belinda Wong, chairman and chief executive officer of Starbucks’ China division. “Since entering China 20 years ago, Starbucks has always strived to be a different kind of company. We want to share our success with all partners, in a timely and thoughtful manner that recognizes their individual needs, because each of our 55,000 partners is special.”

With an estimated 18,500 employees — or “partners,” as Starbucks calls them — eligible for the program, and newly eligible partners to be enrolled every six months thereafter, Flex Star Benefits constitutes a significant investment for Starbucks China.

Starbucks’ pioneering partner investments are already renowned in China’s retail industry, with the company recently listed on Best Employers China for the fifth time by international human resources consultancy Aon Hewitt.

Flex Star Benefits are yet another breakthrough in Starbucks ongoing endeavor to build a culture of family. Employees are empowered to make individual choices based on what they need, from a variety of options designed to help them enrich their lives.

To support employees’ physical and mental well-being, Starbucks encourages them to pursue their passions. They may use their credits to learn a new skill or take up a hobby that relaxes the mind and body amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life. (SD-Agencies)